If you've got a clear plan and practical knowledge, you can set up a fantastic fish farming business in no time. There is a long list of advantages of fish farming, and when it comes to investment, it's much less than what you're expecting. You can even start this business on a very small scale. Yes, fish breeding doesn't always need big ponds.
There are many fishes that you can even breed in a small tank. If you choose the right fishes to breed, and that is something that is always in high demand, then you can generate a consistent profit. Now, let's learn everything about fish farming.
Did You Know?
In 2017, the fish market in India was worth ₹1,004 Billion. As per the estimates by the experts in the fish industry, this business will scale up at a rapid pace, and the fish industry will be worth ₹ 1,821 Billion by 2023, at a solid 10.4% CAGR during 2018-2023 financial cycle. This is around 6% of the entire world's fish production, and even today, India is among the largest fish producers in the world.
The Benefits of Fish Farming in India
The establishment of a commercial fish farming business offers many benefits. The major benefits of starting fish farming in India are listed below:
- Fish and products from fish have been a major market in India. Fish is among the most popular and favorite foods of over 60% of Indian people.
- Demand and price are always high for fish and related products.
- The Indian climate is ideal for the fish farming business.
- Many kinds of readily accessible water sources can be found. Your pond can be filled with water from your local river, lake, or other sources.
- Many types of fast-growing fish species are readily available. The farming of these can yield rapid returns on your investment.
- It is easy to access, and the labour costs are pretty cheap. It is also possible to start an integrated fish farming business with diverse species. Integrated fish farming can reduce the costs of feeding and helps ensure increased production.
Also Read: Exploring Some of the Leading and Best Farming Business Ideas in India
How to Start a Fish Farming Business?
The process of starting a fish farm in India isn't as simple. To establish a successful fish farming business, it is necessary to undergo a few steps.
Know the Different Types of Fish Farming Ponds
There are various types of ponds based on the growth stage of the fish.
- Rearing Tank.
- Stocking Pond.
- Nursery Pond.
- Bio Pond.
Equipment Needed for Fish Farming
Plastic or natural ponds? This is among the most crucial things you'll need to think about while planning your fish farming business. It is possible to use them as fish tanks with larger dimensions. It's also the best option for beginners to get started in this industry. There are also options for artificial ponds on the market. The cost of this product for the fish breeding business could depend on the size and quality of your farm.
The Selection of the Fish Breed
Following the construction of the pond, the next thing to do is pick the appropriate fish breed to raise. The first aspect to consider is the kind of fish that will be raised in either salty water or in an ornamental freshwater.
Selecting the best breed and type in a fish farm business depends on the kind of water in the pond, the availability of resources, the climate and the demand for the market. For instance, the carp variety of fish, such as catla, rohu catfish, grass carp, etc., is intended for Indian ponds.
Certain farmers cultivate several different fish species inside the same tank since this helps in more efficient use of resources. When it comes to ornamental fish, some of the most important species for commercial use are loaches, freshwater sharks, barbs, danios goldfish, etc.
Feeding the Fish
When rearing fish in ponds, it is necessary to feed them to ensure that fish gains the maximum weight within the shortest amount of time. But, when taking care of the rearing and feeding process, ensure that the water's pH level is within 7 to 8 to ensure optimal growth.
The food should provide the essential nutrients to support growth, maintenance and reproduction. The food should also contain vital nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, fats, carbohydrates and other minerals in sufficient amounts. It is simpler to keep healthy fish diets that are natural to the pond, like zooplankton, insect larvae and phytoplankton.
This means that the natural habitat needed for fish growth is protected to a degree. To increase the growth rate of phytoplankton, you can add organic farming materials to the water pond.
Additionally, extra food is provided in either dry/moist forms. If fish feed on top levels, offer floating pellets. If the fish breed you've chosen feeds below the water, offer sinking pellets. In this way, you can keep your fish healthy and succeed in your fish farm business plan.
Marketing
Without proper marketing, you won't be able to achieve high-quality production. The major benefit of commercial fishing across India is that it is easy to sell your product at a fair cost. The majority of Indian fish farmers would sell their products at the market. Indian fish is also in enormous demand on the international markets. You can make more money by exporting your fish to countries outside of India.
To promote international sales from India, farmers' associations must be established to make it easier to market your products on international markets and earn more profits.
Also Read: How To Start A Dairy Business
Fish Farm Maintenance
The most important step for maintaining a fish farm is maintaining the right pH level in the water. The pH level needs to be maintained at a neutral point to allow for the optimal development of fish.
Additionally, it should be treated with salt, potassium permanganate and others to stop the development of unwanted stuff in the pond. Water treatment is a regular practice to ensure protection against various virus attacks inside the ponds.
How Do You Get Authorization?
- It is crucial to register your business in India before you begin it. It is necessary to register by submitting a business registration form. The form will provide you with registration-related details.
- You'll have to be registered with the government office as a business. You may need to submit all details about your business and yourself. You may also be eligible for a government subsidy for business.
- If you're looking to start this business in the river or seaside location, you would need to obtain a special permit.
Conclusion
Now, you know everything about the advantages of fish farming and how to set up this business. Once you complete researching your area's market demand, you can decide whether to breed indoor/outdoor and which species to breed. After that, you can make a solid business plan and gather capital for investment. You're all set to reap the benefits of fish farming when you follow these steps accurately. Also, you can reap all the benefits of online transactions easily by using Khatabook to increase your sales by letting your customers pay online.
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